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Tom Rogers went to Fourth Street School, graduated from Geneva High School in 1985, and has worked for Geneva School District 304 since college.
On Thursday night, the longtime GHS principal became the 2026 Wood Award recipient. The Geneva Chamber of Commerce presents the honor during its annual gala to an individual who has made major contributions to the community.
The Chamber also used the occasion to recognize several other local businesses and volunteers for their support of both the Chamber and the community at large.
Here’s what to know:
A Geneva lifer: Rogers started teaching at Geneva Middle School in 1990 and coached at both the middle and high school. He became GHS athletic director in the mid-1990s and took over as principal in 2007.
Out in the community: He supports about a dozen local organizations, including the Geneva Community Chest, Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry, Lazarus House, the Geneva History Museum, and the GHS sports, music, and theatre boosters.
A positive presence: Geneva History Museum Executive Director Terry Emma, the 2019 Wood Award winner, said his biggest impact on Geneva has been making the high school a safe, fun, and engaging place. She also noted that he always asks students for their input before making a decision.
The rest of the winners: Penrose Brewing Company, presenting sponsor of Festival of the Vine, was named Member of the Year. The other honorees were M.C. Media (New Member of the Year), Elements Massage (Chamber Champion), Chad Rauch of Schooley Mitchell (Ambassador of the Year), and Linda Stephano (Volunteer of the Year). President’s Awards went to the City of Geneva, Fagans Graphic Design and Printing Services, the Geneva Park District, Hogan Design & Construction, and Windy City Amusements.
Colleagues clearly see Rogers as someone who gets things done.
“When confronted with a challenge, he looks for ways to make it happen rather than listing the ways why it can’t be done,” said Jim Kafer, former athletic director for Geneva 304. “He is not afraid to make tough decisions, but he always does so with empathetic concern.”
The Chamber first presented the Wood Award in 1985 to William C. Wood.
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